Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Program Challenges

Prior to implementing rural health promotion and disease prevention programs, the following challenges may need
to be addressed:

Appropriate communication methods: Using multiple channels to communicate with local
residents about the program can be highly effective for recruitment. To identify the best communication
channels, and to understand the dynamics of the target population, conduct focus groups, surveys, or other
assessments about how they receive information.

Keeping the community motivated: It’s important for program planners to understand that one
component of success is recruiting
and retaining participants. Conduct education and outreach to identify
community awareness of health concerns, determine community members’ expectations, and to motivate
individuals to achieve better health outcomes.

Cultural and social issues: Unique cultural and social norms can affect the program's
likelihood of success. Many rural communities have deeply rooted traditions and cultures around food, lack
of trust for medical professionals and outsiders, and/or social beliefs around certain behaviors. Make a
conscious effort to recognize and understand these norms before implementing the program and develop
strategies to address them. Involving members from the target population in this process can help achieve
cultural competency and encourage participation.

Resources and sustainability: Rural communities have finite financial, technological, and
workforce resources. Program staff may be involved in other activities and commitments. To create
sustainable support for the program, focus on a shared vision and involve partner organizations and a
larger body of community stakeholders.

Barriers to participation: Local circumstances such as geography can influence program
implementation and operations. The program design should accommodate lengthy travel times, availability of
(or lack of) transportation, childcare needs, and site availability to minimize potential barriers to
program participation.

The Rural Health Information Hub is supported by the Health Resources
and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
under Grant Number U56RH05539 (Rural Assistance Center for Federal Office of Rural Health
Policy Cooperative Agreement). Any information, content, or conclusions on this website are
those of the authors and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor
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